Richard Simmons has promised fans that he would reach out if he was hurting.

The 67-year-old former fitness guru sparked concern among fans after not being seen in public for two years. One of the most controversial reports surrounding Richard's absence from the public eye was that he was being deliberately kept from his friends and family by his longtime live-in housekeeper Teresa Reveles - allegations that prompted The New York Daily News newspaper to launch an investigation.

In an article published by the newspaper earlier this month, Richard's former assistant Mauro Oliveira paid a visit to the star's home, and was told that they could no longer see each other. Several other friends reportedly told the publication that they hadn't heard from Richard since 2013 and were "very concerned".

However, Richard slammed the New York Daily News report as "very hurtful", and insisted his withdrawal from fame has been his own choice.

"I am not kidnapped," he told Entertainment Tonight via the telephone on Sunday. "I am just in my house right now. No one should be worried about me. The people that surround me are wonderful people who take great care of me.

"I love all the people who worry about me. But it was time for me to take some time to be by myself. This is how I want to live my life right now. And to all the people that are worried about me, please don't be. If I was in any trouble, if I was hurting in any way, I would reach out. It is time right now for Richard Simmons to take care of Richard Simmons."

Another of the rumours circulating was that he was suffering from health issues or was embarrassed to leave his house because he had put on weight. But Richard insisted he is as fit as he ever was.

"I still weigh 150 (pounds). I work out every day," Richard added. "I have a gym at the house, and I am very healthy.

"For the last 40 years I have been travelling, teaching classes, and I had a knee injury, so I had a knee replacement, which was very difficult for me... I have really just been taking it easy, staying at home, working out in my gym and doing the things I haven't done in a very long time."